Posted on: PaloAlto County Queries Reply Here: http://cgi.rootsweb.com/~genbbs/genbbs.cgi/USA/Ia/PaloAlto/161 Surname: Easton, Wiley ------------------------- Linda, I am not of the Easton family but I grew up in Curlew and have a centennial book of Curlew, 1884-1984. It has several pages of information on the Eastons. If you would be interested in this information please let me know. Carol Brennan (brennanc@dot.net)

Posted on: PaloAlto County Obituaries Reply Here: http://genconnect.rootsweb.com/genbbs.cgi/USA/Ia/PaloAltoObits/465 Surname: Hovenden, Chittum, Consbruck ------------------------- Searching great grandparents and back... Bert and Emma Hovenden: Child: Flora Emma Hovenden Married to: Gerald Raymond Chittum Children: Geralynn, Vicky, Joyce, Charleen Charleen Chittum married Gerald Consbruck Their chilren: Debra, Glen, Tamra, David

Emmetsburg Democrat Emmetsburg, Palo Alto, Iowa 5 Oct 1910 News of 20 Years Ago, 10 Oct 1890 Mr. T.E. EGAN, formerly of this place, and Miss Jessie FERGUSON of St. Francis, Kansas, were married at that place last Saturday. J.F. RYAN, the Rock Island agent of this place, has been transferred to Cedar Rapids. P. MONTGOMERY, of Walnut township, is building a new barn. Mr. McGUIRE, of Illinois, is visiting his uncle, Thomas CONLON. Thomas WEIR is enjoying a visit from his father who resides in Illinois. The Lutherans of Mallard will soon begin the erection of a new church. There is a new girl at the home of Mr. and Mrs. P. MONTGOMERY, of Walnut township. A daughter was born to Mr. and Mrs. BAUMGARTNER Saturday. Marriage licenses have been issued to the following named parties: C.E. GROVES and Flora NEWVILLE, F.W. BRATMILLER and Anna KAHLBY, Fred FINN and Gertie KELLY. Joseph, son of J.W. BRENNAN, died at Wesley Tuesday, aged 16. He had heart disease. Miss Kate CASSIDY, of Hull, is visiting relatives in this city. A. KAUFMAN, of Chicago, is visiting his uncle, H.M. KAUFMAN, in this city. Dr. and Mrs. D.E. COLLINS, of Dakota, are visiting relatives in this city. P.J. NOLAN, of Ruthven, has been in this city during the past few days serving as a juror. J.O. BURNS, William MUIR, Gray GOWANS, John STEMETS, B.S. KINGSLEY, Fred DALEY, Mr. and Mrs. Ed GALLEGER and the Misses McCORMICK, SCOTT and WALLACE attended the Sioux City corn palace last weekend. J.H. HINKLEY has moved into his new store building. E.H. AVERY, of Silver Lake, is building a new house. Rev. PARALL, of Illinois, is to be the new pastor of the M.E. church at Ayrshire. Miss Netta LARSON, of Avoen, Wisconsin, is visiting sisters at Ruthven. John DONLON has purchased Joe NEEDHAM's interest in the livery barn at Ruthven. L.H. SPORAN, of Ruthven, has gone to Whittemore to remain for the winter. James SCANLAN of Silver Lake township, has sold his farm to Thos. CLAER and will return to Iowa City. Dr. BALDWIN reports quite a number of cases of malarial fever at Ruthven. Mr.LATON is putting up a building at Ayrshire to be used for a store and dwelling combined. Last Sunday a horse kicked E.P. BARRINGER's two-year-old son in the forhead, cutting a deep gash. However the injury will not prove serious. All kinds of dry goods will be dearer after November 1 because of the passage of the McKinley tariff bill, which has raised the duty on them. J.P. KIRBY has been appointed cashier of the Bank of Estherville. --------------------------------------------------------- August a Good Creamery Month During the month of August the Emmetsburg Creamery company checked out $7,704.72 to its 164 patrons. The price paid for butter fat was 35 cents. The following are the names of those who had received checks for $20 and over: T.H. TAYLOR....................$162.01 Ben CATTELL....................$154.31 Wm. FISHER......................$152.53 Andreas ZIEHLKE..............$143.46 Mrs. Mary A. GIBBS..........$130.41 W.H. GRACE.....................$125.02 Michael JOYNT..................$112.49 W.H. PARKS.....................$104.05 John FITZPATRICK...........$102.90 Mrs. O.P. DOYLE..............$101.15 P.C. NEARY......................$ 99.75 Thos. HAMILTON.............$ 97.47 J.B. WILLIAMS.................$ 93.66 Michael MURPHY..............$ 92.92 James DUNIGAN...............$ 92.75 000525 Cathy Joynt Labath Palo Alto Co USGenWeb Project http://www.rootsweb.com/~iapaloal/paloalto.htm Newspaper Abstracts-Palo Alto County http://www.newspaperabstracts.com/IA/PaloAlto/

This was a release from Ancestry.com today. It is free to non-subscribers of ancestry.com for 10 days! IOWA CEMETERY RECORDS (Update Adding Every County Except Mahaska) These cemetery records represent 77 counties and Graceland Cemetery of Sioux City, Iowa that were transcribed by the Works Project Administration, Graves Registration Project. This collection is the largest compilation of the Iowa WPA cemetery records found in a single place. The database was created from copies of the transcriptions created by the Works Progress Administration; because of multi-generational copies, some names were hard to decipher. As with any genealogical index, the data is to be used as a finding aid to original records. Records in this database generally include the page number where the record can be found in the WPA index, the name of the deceased, birth date, death date, age, cemetery name, town name, and additional comments if any. This update adds 73 counties to the four that were previously posted. Counties now included in this database are: Adair, Adams, Allamakee, Audubon, Black Hawk, Boone, Bremer, Buchanan, Buena Vista, Butler, Calhoun, Carroll, Cass, Cedar, Cerro Gordo, Chickasaw, Clarke, Clay, Clayton, Crawford, Davis, Decatur, Delaware, Dickinson, Emmet, Fayette, Floyd, Franklin, Fremont, Greene, Grundy, Guthrie, Hancock, Harrison, Jackson, Jefferson, Johnson, Jones, Keokuk, Kossuth, Lee, Linn, Louisa, Madison, Mahaska, Marion, Marshall, Mills, Mitchell, Monroe, Montgomery, Muscatine, O'Brien, Page, Palo Alto, Plymouth, Pocahontas, Polk, Poweshiek, Ringgold, Sac, Scott, Shelby, Sioux, Sioux City, Story, Tama, Taylor, Union, Van Buren, Wapello, Washington, Wayne, Webster, Winneshiek, Woodbury, Worth, and Wright. The Works Project Administration was a relief program created during the presidency of Franklin Delano Roosevelt in the 1930s. The program provided employment for millions of people during the Great Depression. For more information about the Works Project Administration, please see the following articles: "The Works Projects Administration," by Juliana Smith ("Ancestry Daily News," 4/03/2000) http://www.ancestry.com/library/view/news/articles/793.asp "The WPA: 60-Year-Old Investment Still Yields High Dividends," by Loretto Dennis Szucs ("Ancestry" Magazine, May/June 1995) http://www.ancestry.com/library/view/ancmag/699.asp Source Information: Ancestry.com. "Iowa Cemetery Records." Provo, UT: Ancestry.com, 2000. Original data: Works Project Administration. "Graves Registration Project." Washington, D.C.: n.p. To search this database, go to: http://www.ancestry.com/search/rectype/inddbs/4711.htm ____________________________________________________________________

How did they live? I was writing up some tidbits on how our ancestors lived for a family history book I am doing for my family. Thought others might be interested in the following: Notes taken from Northwest Iowa History and Traditions 1804-1926, Vol I, Chicago, 1927 Northwest Iowa was mostly destitute of timber for cabins and fencing and with few deep ravines for shelter from fierce blizzards. Northwest prairies long remained unoccupied after other portions of the state were settled. The homestead act brought settlers. They could purchase 160 acres for $14. Sod houses were made by running broadshire breaking-plow over wet prairie and cutting into long strips and turning over. Sod strips were then cut with spades into lengths suitable to handle and laid up into brick walls for houses and stables. Poles of timber supported the roof of slough hay. Before boards could be procured for doors, skins of deer and wolves kept out snow. Utensils of a well furnished kitchen-iron pot, long handled fry pan, skillet, coffee pot. Bedsteads- Forked stake was driven into ground proper distance from corners of room and upon it poles-usually made of hickory-were laid reaching from each wall. Poles where they touched the walls rested in openings between logs or were driven into auger holes. Upon these poles clapboard slats were placed. On this framework the housewife spread her straw tick, or homemade feather bed. Food- Before there were mills, grain was ground between two stones. Much corn was eaten after it was parched. Parched rye was a coffee substitute. Green corn was dried and cooked with beans. Sweetner-honey from bee trees or made molasses from cane grown like corn. Staple meat-pork, fresh and fresh-salted for winter use, pickled and smoked for summer. Also wild quail, prairie chicken. It was said that "cornbread, with pork and rye coffee formed the prairie bill of fare with occasional side of mustard greens." Anyone else have any info??? Cathy

Emmetsburg Democrat Emmetsburg, Palo Alto, Iowa 3 July 1912 Mr. and Mrs. Thos. F. JONES of Manson came up in their car Sunday for a short visit with the latter's sisters, Mrs. Frank ILLINGWORTH and Mrs. W.E.G. SAUNDERS. They will go to the western part of the state from Emmetsburg. Major SMITH informs us that he recently visited Winnipeg, Canada. The weather was very warm while he was there. He was surprised at the size of Winnipeg and the numerous evidences of enterprise and thrift that are witnessed. Mrs. FARRELLY, mother of Mrs. John LYNCH of this city, who had been visiting her, returned to Parkersburg, Iowa, Monday morning. Though 80 years of age she is apparently rugged and hearty. She was accompanied by her daughter, Miss Belinda FARLEY. A son was born to Mr. and Mrs. Michael CONLON of Great Oak township Saturday, June 29. As this is their first and only child, it is needless to say that the parents are proud as well as happy. Mr. CONLON could not be blamed today were he to feel like celebrating. Mr. Clarence HENNICK of Graettinger and Miss Etta HENDERSON of Emmetsburg were united in marriage in this city on Monday. Justice T.J. DUFFY officiating. The Democrat extends hearty congratulations to the contracting parties, and wishes them health and happiness. Among those who came from a distance to attend the funeral of the late Cornelius DRISCOLL were Mrs. DRISCOLL of Dumont, Iowa, sister-in-law of the deceased, N.J. CLARK of Eagle Grove, Mr. and Mrs. M. COLLINS of Dell Rapids, South Dakota, and Tim COLLINS of Dell Rapids. All went to Ackley Monday to attend the funeral. The last of the week, A.H. KELLER of Weiser, Idaho, shipped to his parents in this city a large box of as fine cherries as we have ever seen. Mr. KELLER sent a few of them to this office. Our boy says he would like to live in the country where such cherries are grown. Idaho is apparently quite a fruit country. Many thanks, Mr. KELLER. Those who went to Ackely Monday to attend the funeral of Cornelius DRISCOLL, were Attorney John DRISCOLL, Mr. and Mrs. Daniel BURNS, Miss Katherine DRISCOLL, P.F. McMAHON, his sons Earl and Leo and daughter, Miss Irene. Mrs. Dr. O'BRIEN, Mrs. Wm. GRADY, and the several others who came from a distance to be present at the obsequies. Their names are mentioned elsewhere in this issue. James W. JOYCE made a couple of trips to the lakes during the past week in the new Ford auto which he recently bought of John SCOTT. He is enjoying the use of it. Mrs. James McNAMARA and her sister, Mrs. George NELSON, and children arrived home from Lake Mills Thursday evening where they had been visiting relatives for a short time. Thursday morning a kerosene stove damaged slightly one of the W.I. BRANAGAN houses. The loss, however, will not exceed $50. Mr. and Mrs. Patrick O'BRIEN occupy the house. Mrs. Dr. M.J. JOYNT and little daughter, Regina Margaret, recently visited the home of Mr. and Mrs. M. JOYNT of Emmetsburg township. They returned last week to their home at Jesup, Iowa. Patrick KELLY who lives in North Vernon, was the victim of a sun stroke last Thursday. He was in a serious condition for some time, but he is steadily improving. Dr. O'BRIEN is the attending physician. The last of the week W.S. PALMER wrote his wife from Winnipeg, Canada, that he was just leaving for Edmonton. He will inspect western Canada quite closely. He will probably invest in some real estate before he returns home. A traveling company gave vaudeville and moving picture entertainments at Graettinger every evening of last week. On Saturday evening a prize was given for the most popular lady of Graettinger. It was won by Miss Mildred MAHAN. Mr. and Mrs. Charles CHRISTIAN and Mr. and Mrs. Peter PAULSON and family, who live in the southern part of Emmet county, were guests at the home of Mr. and Mrs. McNAMARA of the Ayrshire neighborhood a few days ago. The funeral of Mrs. Thomas KELLY, who recently died near Graettinger, was held from the M.E. church at that place Sunday afternoon. The remains were laid to rest in High Lake cemetery. She is a daughter of Eli CRAVEN of Graettinger. She will be remembered as Mrs. Martin JAARD. Mrs. W.C. MAIDEN, while using a sewing machine a few days ago, ran the needle through her thumb, holding her fast to the machine until she was released. The needle was so badly bent that it was necessary for the attending surgeon to cut the thumb open in order to extricate it. The Champion reports that John CULLEN has sold his Buick auto. He doubtless intends buying a new one. Frank MURRAY of Osgood was a business visitor in this city Monday. He is engaged in tiling in that vicinity. Mr. and Mrs. James P. FLOOD have moved to Sheldon where they will make their future home. Mr. FLOOD has secured a good position with the telephone exchange at that place. He likes the town and has decided to locate in it. He worked at Fonda for some time after giving up his position at Centerville. We are pleased to report that Mrs. Henry SELLE, Sr., who is still at Excelsior Springs, is steadily improving. She was so badly crippled up with rheumatism when she went there that she could scarcely move. She is now able, with some assistance, to walk about the room in the hotel in which she is stopping. This is good news to her many local friends. We notice by our exchanges that there are a great many auto accidents this season. Drivers should be very careful. P.H. STEADMAN was at Fort Dodge Sunday spending the day with his son, Sim R. STEADMAN. The latter has been quite ill for some time. There will be a picnic dinner in the grove of Mr. MOWITT, who lives near Hoprig, tomorrow. Several who live in this vicinity are planning on attending. M.L. BROWN informs us that he has commenced excavating for the new savings bank building at West Bend. It will be a very fine structure when completed. Frank SULLIVAN of Graettinger, who had been attending a telegraph institute at Minneapolis, is now working for the Great Northern company at Hunter, North Dakota. William, son of C.S. ALLEN, of Laurens, who frequently visits Emmetsburg, and who owns large tracts of land in this vicinity and throughout the county, was married to Miss Clara MERDINK of Omaha last Wednesday. We notice that Ray McNALLY frequently comes up from Garner to Whittemore to visit friends. We can not understand why he should stop at Whittemore and not come to Emmetsburg. An explanation is in order, Ray. Thomas LARSON was up from West Bend Saturday. He was accompanied by his son Adrian, who returned from Minneapolis the last of the week. The latter recently graduated from a telegraph institute at Minneapolis. He will work as helper in the depot at Graettinger. 000525 Cathy Joynt Labath Palo Alto Co, Iowa USGenWeb Project http://www.rootsweb.com/~iapaloal/paloalto.htm Palo Alto County, Iowa Newpaper Abstracts http://www.newspaperabstracts.com/IA/PaloAlto/index.html

Emmetsburg Democrat Emmetsburg, Palo Alto Co, Iowa 21 Feb 1912 Catholic Bazaar at Graettinger The ladies of the Catholic church of Graettinger held their annual bazaar February 14 in the elegant new opera house at that place. Dinner and supper were served in the basement of the building. Following is the program that was rendered during the afternoon: Welcome, Emmet Lambe Piano Solo, Miss Theresa Montgomery A comedy entitled " A Proposal Under Difficulties," was then presented. Reading, Mrs. L.E. Crim Song, Alice Wildey, Esther Larsen, and Mary Donlon. Piano Solo, Gertrude Mahan In the evening a dance was given. St. Mary's orchestra furnished the music. The net proceeds of the day's doings amounted to nearly $250.

Posted on: PaloAlto County Obituaries Reply Here: http://cgi.rootsweb.com/~genbbs/genbbs.cgi/USA/Ia/PaloAltoObits/464 Surname: Gibbs ------------------------- Emmetsburg Democrat Emmetsburg, Palo Alto Co, Iowa 21 Feb 1912 John Gibbs Killed His Clothing Caught on a Winding Shaft and He Was Choked to Death Wednesday afternoon John Gibbs was killed at his home southwest of this city while pumping water for his cattle. He had apparently stepped onto a nail keg while the engine was running in order to oil a pulley overhead. A set screw in the shaft caught his left sleeve and wound his clothing so tight about his neck and chest that he could not breathe. He was apparently unable to extricate himself and, as no one else was present, he soon expired. He wore heavy under-clothing and he had on two jackets. Hence he was powerless to held himself, owing to the strength of the garments. When found the engine was running but the chain connecting it to the shaft was broken. The shaft was bent. Mr. Gibbs was wound up so tight to it that it was with much difficulty that he was taken down. He came to the Emmetsburg creamery during the forenoon. He reached home about one o'clock, put away his team and a short time after started up the engine. His mother was in the house washing. Some time later a young man named Morris, who was hauling corn, called. Mrs. Gibbs told him that he son was pumping water. The young man went into the pump house to see him and found him suspended from the ceiling of the building in an apparently lifeless condition. He ran back to the house to enquire if there was any other man about the place, not wishing to frighten the mother. She replied in the negative. Then he told her that her son was injured and hanging to the shafting. She hurried into the pump house to do what she could to save him. She was horrified to find him dead. She stopped the engine, but she and Mr. Morris could not take down the body. Mr. Morris ran to the home of James Burns and Mrs. Gibbs hurried to Mr. Cattell's for assistance. In a short time a number of neighbors arrived and, by hard effort, the body of the unfortunate young man was extricated and taken down. Dr. J.L. Van Gorden, the coroner, was summoned. After hearing all the testimony that could be obtained, a verdict in accordance with the facts stated was returned by the jury. The funeral was held Saturday forenoon. The was a very large attendance. The Ancient Order of Hibernians and the Modern Woodmen of America were largely represented in the procession, Mr. Gibbs having been a member of both organizations. Services were conducted at Assumption church. Rev. C.P. Conway officiated, celebrating a requiem mass. He was assisted by Father McNerney of this city and Father Kelly of Graettinger. The burial was in the family lot in St. John's cemetery. The active pall bearers representing the Hibernians were M.J. Conway, Wm. Joynt, Joseph F. Joynt, Thomas Burns, James P. Jones, and Richard McEvoy. The honorary pall bearers, representing the Woodmen, were P.C. Jackman, James Burns, P.F. Conlon, A.J. Williams, T.J. Miller, and Matthew Neary. Mr. Gibbs was born in this locality April 18, 1881. He spent practically all of his life on the old homestead. He lived with his mother, none of the other members of the family being home. There is a half section in the farm. Hence his duties were laborious....(rest missing) [Note: I know nothing further of Mr. Gibbs] Link: Palo Alto County, Iowa USGenWeb Project URL: <http://www.rootsweb.com/~iapaloal/paloalto.htm>

Emmetsburg Democrat Emmetsburg, Palo Alto Co, Iowa 18 Sep 1912 Marriage at Osgood Mr. Arthur Olds and Miss Etta Mae Giddings Mr. Arthur Olds and Miss Etta Mae Giddings were united in marriage Tuesday at two o'clock at the home of the bride's parents, Mr. and Mrs. Chas. H. Giddings of Osgood, Rev. J. Brerton, pastor of the Congregational church of that place, performing the ceremony. Only a few relatives and friends were in attendance. Mr. and Mrs. Olds left last evening for points in Illinois where they will visit for some time with relatives of the groom. During the early part of winter they will commence housekeeping on the Paul Schaney farm in Walnut township. Mr. Olds having rented the place some time ago. The bride is one of our county's accomplished, prepossessing young ladies. She attended the Emmetsburg public schools for several years and was a diligent successful student. She has since taught in the schools of our county for some time and she has attained a creditable rank in her chosen calling. She is esteemed for her many social qualities as wewll as for her ability as a teacher and her usefulness in the community in which she has resided since childhood. The groom has lived with his parents on the C.S. Wells farm near Osgood for some time. His industry and worth are recognized to those who know him intimately. He will, no doubt, eventually win his way to success. The Democrat extends hearty congratulations to Mr. and Mrs. Olds and trusts that their joy and comforts may increase with the coming years. [Please note I know nothing further of the persons in this article]

Posted on: PaloAlto County Obituaries Reply Here: http://cgi.rootsweb.com/~genbbs/genbbs.cgi/USA/Ia/PaloAltoObits/463 Surname: Tressler, Brown, Flynn ------------------------- Emmetsburg Democrat, 18 Sep 1912 Mrs. S.W. Tressler Tribute to Aged Lady Whose Death Was Reported in Last Week's Democrat Mrs. S.W. Tressler died at her home in this city Saturday after a lingering illness of several months at the age of 78 years and 1 months. Death was caused by heart trouble and old age. Mrs. Tressler was born May 3, 1834, at Hilsdale, Michigan, where she grew to womanhood. She was married to S.W. Tressler in 1849. The daughters are Mrs. Brown of Curlew, and Mrs. Flynn of California. The sons, Will and John, reside in Montana. The funeral was held at two o'clock Sunday afternoon from the residence. Mrs. Tressler came to Palo Alto County with her husband some 42 years ago and have since made their home in this vicinity. Mrs. Tressler was a frugal, dutiful, considerate wife and one of the most solicitous and conscientious of mothers She was the mother of four children, all of whom are living-two sons and two daughters. To their comfort and welfare was given the unselfish devotion of her earnest and motherly heart. She bore her physical trials with a sense of christian fortitude that was as surprising as it was edifying. Belief finally came in a death that was all the ardent Christian soul could desire. Her husband and children have the sympathy of of our citizens in the death of one whose life was so long and so useful and whose many worthy deeds they will doubtless fondly treasure.-Mallard Independent [Note: I know nothing further of the persons in this obit.] Link: Palo Alto County, Iowa USGenWeb Project URL: <http://www.rootsweb.com/~iapaloal/paloalto.htm>

Posted on: PaloAlto County Obituaries Reply Here: http://cgi.rootsweb.com/~genbbs/genbbs.cgi/USA/Ia/PaloAltoObits/462 Surname: Walsh, Nolan ------------------------- Emmetsburg Democrat, Palo Alto Co, IA 18 Sep 1912 Thomas Walsh Dead He Served as County Recorder for Eight Years Thomas Walsh, one of the pioneers of our county, died at the home of his brother, Joseph Walsh, in this city last Wednesday. His death was the result of an injury received a few days ago while engaged in putting up hay. He was on top of the rick and the stacker, in dumping, struck him, throwing him to the ground. He was apparently injured pretty badly. He was taken to the home of his brother and a physician was summoned. Dr. Powers, who attended him, found one rib broken but did not consider his condition serious. He was able to walk about the house for two or three days. Wednesday his limbs became paralyzed and he lived but a short time. The funeral was held Friday forenoon. Services were conducted at Assumption church, Very Rev. P.F. Farrelly officiating. The burial was in St. John's cemetery. The pall bearers were P. Joynt, Henry Seile, Thomas Kirby, Joseph Mulroney, Charles Nolan, and P.C. Neary. Mr. Walsh was a native of the county of Kilkenny, Ireland. He came to the United States in 1866 and settled on a farm in Nevada township. He was married to Miss Maria Nolan in 1868. Two sons and one daughter were born to them. One son, John M. Walsh, lives at Livingston, Montana. The other son, Thomas, and the daughter, Bridie, left Emmetsburg a number of years ago. Their local relatives do not know where they reside. Mrs. Walsh died a number of years ago. The only brother, Joseph, lives in this city. An only sister is a member of a religious order in New York. She spent some time in France and Portugal but left the latter named country when the new government drove out all religious communities. Mr. Walsh was about 70 years of age. Mr. Walsh served as county recorder from 1879 to 1887. He was nominated for a fifth term but was defeated by a small majority. He was bright and capable and he was one of the most obliging officers who ever served our county. He was observing and tactful and he was a good student of human nature. When he could not speak well of a man, he was very careful not to say anything that would injure him. He would give his last dollar to help a friend. He met with some reverses in life and after the death of his wife made his home with relatives. Though misfortune marked his declining years, those who knew him in early days and who had dealings with him as an officer will long cherish recollections of his kindness, his civility and his friendship.

Posted on: PaloAlto County Obituaries Reply Here: http://cgi.rootsweb.com/~genbbs/genbbs.cgi/USA/Ia/PaloAltoObits/461 Surname: Nolan, Conway ------------------------- Palo Alto Reporter, Thursday, May 26, 1904 ANOTHER PIONEER CALLED On Wednesday morning, May 18, at 2:30 o'clock occured the death of Mr. Patrick Nolan of this city. The deceased was born in the county of Kilkenny, Ireland, March 17, 1833, where he grew to manhood. At the age of 21 he emigrated to America and for the first year he resided in Brooklyn, N.Y. The next year he came as far west as Elgin, Ill., where he resided one year and in the fall of 1856 he arrived in Palo Alto county. Six families had preceded him, so that Mr. Nolan was one of the very first settlers in the county. He lived the greater share of his life on his farm just north of the old site of Emmetsburg. In the spring of 1857 he was married to Miss Johanna Conway at Fort Dodge. To this union were born three children, two of whom died in their childhood and the other, M. J. Nolan, grew to manhood and survives his father. In the year of 1888 Mrs. Nolan died and a few years ago Mr. Nolan left the homestead and since then resided with his son in the eastern part of town. In the early days the Nolan homestead was one of the land marks of the county and its owner dispensed hospitality with an open hand and many a stranger found a generous welcome to his home and enjoyed his hospitality. He was generous an frank and a good citizen in every way. With his passing another of those sturdy characters to whose indomitable will and pluck is due the reclaiming of this fertile soil from its wilderness and solitude is removed from the scene of their earlier activities, leaving the generations to come to reap in a great measure the fruit of their labor. The funeral services were held in Assupmtion church Friday morning at 10 o'clock, being conducted by M. J. Costello and the interment was made in St. John's cemetery. Besides his son, M. J. Nolan, the deceased leaves a brother, John Nolan, and numerous other relatives to mourn his loss.

Newspaper Abstracts - where we are finding our ancestors in the news! Over the years many records regarding our ancestors were lost or destroyed in fires, floods and other natural disasters. Newspapers contain much information that may not be found elsewhere such as births, marriages, deaths, court notices, land sales, tax notices, businesses, etc. They hold many glimpses of information in their community news and provide us with many fascinating details about the lives of our ancestors from the businesses they frequented to the hardships and triumphs they endured while building a new life in a new land. Newspaper abstracts came online October 1999 and since that time has grown to over 2,800 pages of data all of which has been contributed by volunteers. This site contains abstracts, extracts and links to newspaper articles across the United States, Ireland and Canada published prior to 1923. More volunteers are also needed in all geographic areas - no submissions are too small or too large! Visit us at: http://www.newspaperabstracts.com/ to see how we are finding our ancestors in the news!

Posted on: PaloAlto County Queries Reply Here: http://cgi.rootsweb.com/~genbbs/genbbs.cgi/USA/Ia/PaloAlto/159 Surname: Meissner ------------------------- I am very new to this so please bear with me. My maiden name is Meissner and I am looking to find out about my great grandfather Carl Edward. All I know on him was he married a woman by the name of Merriam Tyler and had 6 children before disappering in the mid to late 30s. Possibly my faimly.?

Posted on: PaloAlto County Queries Reply Here: http://genconnect.rootsweb.com/~genbbs/genbbs.cgi/USA/Ia/PaloAlto/158 Surname: Niels Christian Sorensen aka Nelson, Esther Thu ------------------------- My great-great-grandfather left Denmark and settled in the area about 1865, He died in Wallingford, Iowa on April 28 1899 so he must have had a picture taken at some time. I want it very much and will be happy to pay any expens involved. My great-grandfather was his first son who stayed in Denmark. His name was Soren Nielsen Vedsted. I corresponded with Esther Thu several years ago and learned much but there was no picture then. Please help me. He must have lived somewhere in Palo Alto County.

Emmetsburg Democrat Emmetsburg, Palo Alto Co, IA 20 July 1910 Edward H. McNally, a son of John McNally, has secured a position as traveling salesman for a wholesale *** at Waterloo. His territory will be northern Nebraska. Frank DONOVAN went to St. Cloud, Minnesota Wednesday from which **nt he will tour several northwest cities with a theatre band. He is handling the slide trombone. He is a good player. Ed GREENWALD arrived in this city from Boise, Idaho. He will visit with relatives for a couple of weeks. He injured one of his knee caps at Jewell Junction and is using a cane. Mr. GREENWALD is always a welcome visitor in Emmetsburg. Wednesday J.O. McGINNIS fell from the top of an elevator grain bin at Pocahontas and was killed. His skull was fractured. His home was at Moulton, Illinois. He was 54 years old. He was a single man. He had been at Pocahontas but a short time. P.S. BROWN will make a tour of British Columbia while absent. The Canadian Northern and the Grand Trunk Pacific Companies are opening up several good towns along the Pacific coast. He will investigate conditions and if suitable openings are found he will invest. Adjutant SWANSON of the Salvation Army of Des Moines was in Emmetsburg Thursday soliciting. Some may sneer at these people but they are doing a great deal of charitable work among the poor in large cities. Individuals should be known by their deeds rather than by their professions, their means, or their appearances. J.J. and J.D. HIGGINS recently enjoyed a visit from P. HIGGINS and family of Dubuque county. Mrs. J.H. MILLEA returned from Cherokee Friday where she had been consulting a specialist. W.E. CROWDER has sold his quarter section farm east of Laurens to George RUPEL for $35 per acre. Spencer is to have a third clothing store. It will be conducted by SHIRLEY and TWITCHELL of Fayette, Iowa. W.H. HIGGINS has bought the W.H. ZISHKA 240 acre farm eight miles southeast of Spencer for $78.50 per acre. J.K. STEENSON was over from Ayrshire last week to see his son E.B. before his departure for Eagle Grove. V.E. HOUSTRON of Ogden, Boone County has been apppointed legal agent of the Adams Express company at Spencer. The W.R. WEBB farm some distance west of Spencer was sold a few days ago to Charles JOHNSON for $100 per acre. The Spencer papers report that Mrs. Guy H. MARTIN is at Rochester, Minnesota, undergoing a severe surgical operation. Mesdames E.E. HUGHES, OSGERBY and FISH, and Misses Grace McCARTY, Mamie GROUT and FIFE were at West Bend Wednesday attending a county convention of the Rebekahs. It was largely attended and proved an enjoyable and profitable gathering. W.J. BROWN informs us that W.S. PARNHAM recently sold his fruit farm near Grand Junction, Colorado, for $8,000. He will most likely invest again. His health is much better than it was several months ago. Philip WEISBROD, who lives near Fenton, built one of the largest barns in that vicinity last fall and during the present summer he has erected a splendid residence. There are a large number of the WEISBROD brothers and they are all thrifty. They are excellent citizens. Mrs. W.J. O'BRIEN of Whittemore visited Emmetsburg relatives last week. Mr. and Mrs. S.R. STEDMAN and little daughter spent Sunday at Templars Park. Ray CARLISLE and Wallace SIMPSON of Whittemore visited Emmetsburg friends Sunday. Mrs. P. JOYNT spent the past week with her daughter, Mrs. SLAGLE of Ruthven. Miss Edna GUSLAND is enjoying a few days at the lakes with Dr. and Mrs. BALDWIN of Ruthven. Miss Lizzie BURKE of Silver Lake is taking a course in a summer school at Des Moines. The Chronicle says that Mrs. P. O'GRADY and Miss Winifred are visiting relatives at Sioux City. Walter SAWYER of the Ayrshire neighborhood is home from Hot Springs after an absence of three months. Leo BURKE came up from Laurens Monday morning and took the west bound train for Gillett Grove. Miss Hilda ARMBRECK who had been visiting her sister, Mrs. ZAHRNDT, returned to State Center Thursday. Geo VEDDER drove to Laurens Saturday with his mother and sisters who had been visiting relatives in this city for some time. Will KIRBY and R.J. DOOLEY returned to Waurika, Oklahoma Saturday. They enjoyed a delightful visit with Emmetsburg relatives. The Lutherans of Fairfield township held their annual schulfest in the C.H. BLECKWENN grove last Sunday. There was a large attendance and all present enjoyed themselves. Edward McNALLY drove across Palo Alto and into Kossuth county Friday. He says he never saw crops looking better. Several farmers had finished harvesting their early oats. Sergeant Edward F. MURRAY is at the state shoot at Des Moines contesting for a place on the Iowa team to the national shoot at Perry, Ohio, in August. The Democrat hopes he will prove a winner. Mrs. C.H. COOKINHAM of Ayrshire was in an M. & St. L. train that was derailed near Albert Lea, Minnesota, a few days ago. Several passengers were injured but no one was killed. The M. & St. L. has a very poor road bed. Geo. WILLIAMS has resigned his post in Mr. FREEMAN's store. He will move to Cedar Rapids where he has secured a good position. No young man in Emmetsburg has more friends than Mr. WILLIAMS. The departure of him and his estimable wife will be regretted by all who know them. Mr. D.G. McCARTY returned from New York Wednesday. She had been visiting her parents for some time. Misses BRERTON and Pearl TAYLOR spent last week as guests at the L.F. FRANCIS summer home at Spirit Lake. Mrs. Major HOLMAN came down from Spirit Lake the last of the week to spend a few days visiting Mrs. Reade CLARKE. Miss Mildred BRAND who had been visiting at the J.H. HINKLEY home for a couple of weeks returned to Sibley Saturday. Mrs. Ed MERRIMAN and little child came down from Graettinger Monday for a visit at the Mr. and Mrs. E.E. HUGHES home. Loyd REFSELL returned home from Spirit Lake Monday. He was a stenographer at the K.T. conclave held at Templars Park last week. Phil DAILY recently returned from Ringsted and told the people of Ayrshire that Peter KNOX living west of Emmetsburg has the best crops that he had seen in his travels. Mrs. Kate DUNGAN and her daughter, Miss Mary, of Montrose, South Dakota, are visiting Mr. and Mrs. Peter JONES of this place. The have also other relatives in this vicinity. Miss LALLY of Denison was an Emmetsburg visitor Friday. She came to meet the members of the school board. She is an applicant for the position of director of music in our schools. Father Charles and his sisters, Mrs. HOWARD and Kit CASSIDY, and his brothers James and John CASSIDY were Emmetsburg visitors Thursday. They were on their way from Hull to Minneapolis. The W.A. of Trinity church will meet with Mrs. W.J. MOSES Wednesday, July 27, at 3 o'clock. Tea will be served at 4. members will please bring the contents of their mite boxes. Mrs. Ralph BEEKS of Los Angeles who had been visiting her cousins, the Misses RICHARDSON and other relatives in this city and vicinity for a week or ten days, went to Grinnell Monday to spend a few days. From there she will return to California. Joe TENNANT who used to keep hotel at Algona is in trouble at Hartley. Harry Edward LEWIS has sued him for $2,000 damages. The latter claimed he registered at Mr. TENNANT's hotel, was assigned a room and that later the landlord refused to keep him overnight. JOHN JOYNT Jr., who is in the employ of the Milwaukee company, says that drouth still prevails in the vicinity of Mason City. The oat crop is practically a failure and corn is backward. The railway companies are burning along their right of way in order to guard against fires. Some farmers are feeding old hay to their cattle. Miss Mary LAUGHLIN of Denver, Colorado is visiting relatives in this vicinity. Joseph CLENNON has been quite sick during the past week but is about again. Dr. M.F. JOYNT has located at Marcus, Iowa. The Democrat wishes him success. C.A. SMITH of Laton, California, lost his bank and one or two other buildings by fire a few days ago. Dr. O'BRIEN reports a new daughter at the home of Mr. and Mrs. W.H. JACKMAN since Monday. Mrs. John MENZIES arrived from California a few days ago to spend a few weeks with Mr. MENZIES. Mrs. BUTTERFIELD and Mrs. ALLEN and daughter, Miss Mable, of Manchester arrived in this city a few days ago to visit Mr. and Mrs. OSGERBY during the Chautauqua. Mrs. BUTTERFIELD is Mrs. OSGERBY's mother and Mrs. ALLEN is Mr. OSGERBY's sister. A few days ago Mrs. John DRUMMY fell and injured herself quite badly. The same limb that was injured last winter is affected. She has been most unfortunate. Last week Miss Martha SCHENDEL stepped on a rusty needle. It broke off and part of it remained in her foot. Wednesday Drs. VAN GORDEN and O'BRIEN removed it. Mrs. M.V. CAVANAUGH and her daughter-in-law, Mrs. Ted CAVANAUGH, of Rockford, Iowa, have been guests during the past week at the home of Mr. and Mrs. F.A. WARNKE. Saturday evening while out auto riding, Dan KELLY had a very close call. He ran against a large rope tied across the street and it skinned his neck pretty badly. It might have killed him. Miss ANDREWS is quite sick and it was tied across the street to prevent teams from passing. Mr. KELLY did not see it. 000525 Cathy Joynt Labath Palo Alto County, Iowa USGenWeb Project http://www.rootsweb.com/~iapaloal/paloalto.htm

http://www.rootsweb.com/~iapaloal/pa95emc3.txt City of Emmetsburg-Ward 3 for the 1895 Iowa State Census is now on-line at the above URL. Enjoy! (Now on to Ward 4) Cathy

Emmetsburg Democrat Emmetsburg, Palo Alto Co, Iowa 6 Aug 1913 MARRIAGE AT RUTHVEN Mr. Roy Kelly and Miss Lizzie Wilson Were United Wednesday A pretty little wedding took place at the home of the groom's parents, Mr. and Mrs. Jerry KELLY on Wednesday at 2:00 p.m. when Rev. W.O. TOMPKINS spoke the words uniting the lives of Mr. Roy KELLY of this city and Miss Lizzie WILSON of Exira, Iowa. Miss Ruby KELLY acted as bride's maid and Peter WILSON as groomsman. The ceremony was witnessed only by immediate relatives of the contracting parties. A dainty wedding luncheon was served after which the newly married couple accompanied by the bride's brother and groom's sister departed by auto for Emmetsburg. The groom is the youngest son of Mr. and Mrs. Jerry KELLY of this city where he is well known. The bride is a sister of Mrs. August ANDERSON ans has been making her home with her brother Peter WILSON, who purchased the old KELLY farm north of town last year. They have many friends who wish them true success in married life.-Ruthven Free Press. ---------------------- We notice by the Washington dispatches that M.L. EIDSNESS of Graettinger has lost his position. He has been on the police force on the Capitol grounds for a number of years. Congressman DOLLIVER secured the position for him. He will be succeeded by a democrat. --------------------- Near By News Estherville Farm Brings $125 PERSON & PITCHER yesterday sold the J.W. COON farm, located three miles northwest of town, to J.H. WILLEY, at a consideration of $125 per acre.--Democrat. John SCHULLER Has Fine Corn John SHULLER [Note: spelled differently from headline above, not transcription error] brought in a stalk of corn Saturday that measures eleven feet. He says this is the average height in his field. This is going some for this time of year.--Mallard Independent. P. MALIA Invests in Minneapolis. Mr. and Mrs. P. MALIA returned from Minneapolis Tuesday evening. While there Mr. MALIA purchased a fine residence property. He says that he brought it on speculation and does not intend to move there.--Ayrshire Chronicle. Auto Accident Near Ruthven. Joe NOLAN met with an auto accident on Monday night which resulted in a badly broken arm. He had been to Spencer and on his way home attempted to turn out for a team and turned too far, running off the grade. The car turned over on him and it was some time before he was able to get out from under it.--Free Press. 000525 Cathy Joynt Labath Palo Alto Co, Iowa USGenWeb Project http://www.rootsweb.com/~iapaloal/paloalto.htm

Palo Alto Reporter Emmetsburg, Palo Alto Co, Iowa 21 Apr 1921 CELEBRATE THEIR GOLDEN WEDDING Sunday is a Big Day in the Lives of Mr. and Mrs. J.J. KANE. MANY FRIENDS IN ATTENDANCE It is not often nor every couple that are given the privilege of celebrating the fiftieth Anniversary of their wedding but on Sunday this delightful experience was given to Mr. and Mrs. John J. KANE of this city. The family and the bride and groom of fifty years ago had been looking forward to the occasion with joyful anticipation. The former by reason of the interesting and pleasureable occasion that it was to afford their parents and the latter for the reason that they were going to have so many of their children and children's children around them to share with them the unusual day. The groom of fifty years before arose early that morning and we doubt if he was more delighted fifty years before than he was on this occasion. It is needless to say that the bride of fifty years before was also alive to what the day was to bring to herself and husband of fifty years. Then they had only themselves to think of and the happiness of the years that were to come. Now they were surrounded by the culmination of a full and complete married life in that they had the happy family of children around them that had come to crown their years with honor and delight. Other couples have gathered more of earthly goods in fifty years of traveling along the pathway of life than Mr. and Mrs. KANE but we doubt if any couple have gotten out of their accumulations of earthly things so much real joy as Mr. and Mrs. KANE have gotten out of the family that years of married life have brought them. After all there are many blessings in life more real, more tangible, more enduring and more satisfying than mere worldly goods and in the latter the fifty years of life together has brought Mr. and Mrs. KANE their full share, hence the joyousness and the real satisfaction of the occassion. Sunday fully one hundred relatives and close friends of the couple gathered at their home and celebrated the occassion. The children and grandchildren from afar had been gathering all of the latter part of the week and the day awoke with a bright clear sunshine in the sky and happiness and joyousness in the home of the bride and groom. The morning hours flew swiftly away in a family reunion and recounting the many things that the years had brought to them. The house was decorated in white and gold emblematic of the first wedding day and the one then being celebrated. Then came the splendid three course dinner which added to the pleasure of the occasion. On the table where bride and groom sat were two dolls, one of gold and one of white. The floral decorations of the table were roses and daisies. The afternoon was spent in games and social recreation. Miss Helen DUHIGG rendered some choice selections on the violin and M.B. KANE of Ayrshire played many of the airs that were common in the early pioneer days in which Mr. and Mrs. KANE were participants. The day was an exceedingly joyous one and along toward evening the guests took their departure but leaving behind them as a memento of the occasion and of their good will $105 in gold and other tokens of their good will. Mr. and Mrs. KANE were married at Mapleton, Wisconsin on April 19th, 1871. Shortly after their marriage Mr. KANE came to this county and settled on his farm west of Emmetsburg and began to make the home that he was to bring his bride to in the fall. Here they lived and toiled until thirteen years ago when they moved to this city and have since made their home here among the Emmetsburg people. To them on the old homestead came six sons and five daughters. The sons are M.P. KANE of Clinton, John of Cando, North Dakota, Ed who resides in this city, Charles of Emmetsburg township and Robert and Joseph of Bowman, North Dakota. The daughters are Mrs. E.J. BRADLEY of Osgood, Mrs. Britt CATERN of Camp Crook, South Dakota, Mrs. James DOWER of Marengo and Mrs. Emil DAHL of Rehm, North Dakota. The other daughter, Miss Katherine KANE was a nurse in the government service during the war and died a couple of years ago. MR. KANE is a veteran of the civil war. At the outbreak of the rebellion he was residing in Wisconsin and he tried to enlist in one of the first regiments raised in that state but could not get in. He returned home and went to work and in the early part of 1862 he enlisted in the seventeenth Wisconsin infantry and served with distinction throughout the rest of the war. He was for 47 days in the seige of Vicksburg and was present when that fortress surrendered to General Grant. He won distinction for gallantry during the seige, being corporal and designated to carry the flag on a charge that was made on the rebel works. This was on May 19th, 1863 and just after Grant had begun the investment of the city. It seems that the color bearer was shot down and as he fell Corporal KANE picked up the flag and carried forward in the charge. For his gallantry on this occasion he was promoted to the rank of sergeant. He was with Sherman.......[missing section] his regiment. He was made Lieutenant for gallantry on this march and was mustered out of service as such. Mr. KANE has always retained his love for the flag and his patriotism during all of the years of peace since the war to the present time has never flagged. In season and out of season Lieutenant KANE has stood for what America stood for and it mattered not what others may have thought he stood firm for his country. Somehow those who have dared something for their country seem to love it with a greater fervor and more lofty patriotism than though they had never made any sacrifice for her. Sunday was certainly a felicitious day for Lieutentant and Mrs. KANE [Nee:Sarah McNALLY] and the one wish for all of the Emmetsburg people is that they will be enabled to spend more anniversary days in their journey through life to that other country where parting is no more. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Numbered among those who came from a distance to attend the Golden Wedding anniversary of Mr. and Mrs. J.J. KANE were Mr. and Mrs. James DOWER of Marengo, Iowa, Mrs. CATERN of Camp Crook, South Dakota; Mrs. DAHL of Rehm, North Dakota; C.J. McNALLY and Mrs. and Mrs. Fred FARLEY of Austin, Minnesota; Mrs. T.J. MULRY of Chicago and M.B. KANE of Ayrshire. 000525 Cathy Joynt Labath Palo Alto Co, Iowa USGenWeb Project http://www.rootsweb.com/~iapaloal/paloalto.htm

Emmetsburg Democrat Emmetsburg, Palo Alto Co, Iowa 21 Feb 1912 Roy DONOVAN and family have moved into the P.R. WELLS residence in the south part of town. J.P. JENNINGS and family will occupy the residence vacated by Mr. DONOVAN. Mr. and Mrs. Henry JOHNSON of Royal and Miss Agnes BYGGERE of Spencer were visitors at the THOMANN home Wednesday. Mr. JOHNSON was here attending a joint meeting of the Clay and Palo Alto county fathers. Daniel LARSON of Walnut township went ot St. Louis about ten days ago where he will remain for some time. He had a sale a short time ago. Mrs. LARSON died during the early part of the winter and he was forced to give up farming. The many friends of Mrs. K.O. GORDON will be pleased to learn that she is now out of the Iowa City hospital. She is at present at Thompson, Iowa. She is still quite weak, but is steadily gaining in strength. She was in the hospital for five weeks. Paul SCHANEY will build a house, barn, hog house, and chicken house, and will make other substantial improvements on his 60 acre farm just south of this city. He will begin work on them early in the spring. He intends moving onto the place next fall. J.L. BOWERS, who shot one of his companions while playing a game of cards at Mason City one Sunday morning a few weeks ago, has been indicted for assault with intent to commit great bodily injury. During the past year, Paris has had fifteen murders, London twelve and Mason City eight. Mrs. C.G. WORLEY [Mary FINN] of Rowley arrived in Emmetsburg Thursday morning to attend the funeral of John JOYNT. She made her home during her childhood with Mr. and Mrs. JOYNT. Mr. WORLEY is the Rock Island station agent at Rowley. He was formerly a resident of Emmetsburg. Joseph LEUER was up from Mallard Wednesday. He came to meet Mr. and Mrs. John KOELLER and family of Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan, who recently arrived to spend some time with relatives in this county. Mr. KOELLER owns a fine half section farm close to Moose Jaw. He has done exceptionally well since moving to that locality. Dr. R.J. NESTOR came up from Waterloo Thursday morning to see his uncle, John JOYNT, but the old gentleman had passed away before he arrived. He could not remain long enough to attend the funeral. He has a fine practice at Waterloo and holds front rank among the leading physicians of the city. Our many local citizens will, we are confident, be pleased to learn of his professional license. Dr. M.F. JOYNT came up from Jessup, Buchanan county, Thursday morning to visit his uncle, John JOYNT, but he came too late to see him alive, as Mr. JOYNT had died the previous evening. Dr. JOYNT has been practicing in Jessup for several years. He reports that he has a good field and that he is having a very satisfactory patronage. He was one of the most diligent students who ever attended our local high school and he has since made his opportunities count.